Prototypes Today

You have the idea and the passion. Your part or product will fulfill a real need in the marketplace. Your part looks flawless in SolidWorks, and production is the next step. Although moving this project forward is your #1 goal, stop and take the time to prototype because tomorrow’s success will depend on it.

A true working prototype is worth its weight in gold. (within reason) Here’s Why:

Prototypes expose design elements unachievable in 3D modeling software.Nothing will tell your design team more than access to a physical part.

Prototypes are for testing and refinement before production. Tooling investment for production runs is not something you want to pay for twice and working out any kinks prior to production is critical.

Prototypes can help solicit investment capital. Investors will often invest in a person or an idea, but prototyping lets you physically hold your idea in front of you investor audience. Your idea will no longer feel like just a concept to a potential investor.

Prototypes show functionality. You will see how the parts react to stress and strain, if they fit with other components and how they perform in use. 3D modeling software is making great advancements in this area, but nothing compares to a real part available for form, fit and function testing.

Prototypes are an investment and insurance policy in one. Investing in your project shows commitment and progress while offering a baseline for development. Having a part in hand for testing ensures successful tooling the first time around.

Prototypes are quick, easy and getting cheaper by the day. With the proliferation of 3D printing, and some manufacturers like Multiplastics offering “soft” prototype tooling, the cost of a prototype is quickly offset when compared to what it’s worth for your product design process.

Most projects will have multiple design iterations and a prototype may be made at multiple phases. With lightening-fast turnaround times, designers, entrepreneurs and manufacturers rely on prototyping continuously throughout the development process. Once a prototype is complete, the “Development Loop” is a critical step in testing and refining part design before moving to production. The engineering and design team will take testing data and implement necessary design changes prior to the next round of prototyping. After prototype testing, the “Development Loop” is a critical and transformational step in finalizing your part before production. Once the prototype passes all testing criteria, it is time for production.

To launch your plastics project with a local partner, contact Jay Kramer @ 843-881-0323 or email sales@multiplastics.com . From concept to design, prototyping and manufacturing, Multiplastics has the experience to get your project off the ground. Remember, prototyping today leads to success tomorrow.